Cycling is a highly energy efficient mode of transport, needing no petrol or diesel, and taking less space than cars on the road and when parking.
Currently, over 7000 Aucklanders choose to cycle to work and school every day. ARTA’s cycling programme aims to achieve the Regional Land Transport Strategy's target to double this number by 2016, primarily by building a regional cycle network. Creating better cycling facilities and expanding the role of cycling as a mode of transport for shorter journeys will be an important element of supporting population growth in new areas of Auckland and around town centres.
To increase the numbers of cyclists, Auckland needs to create the right environment. That means considering the needs of cyclists in all roading projects and at all stages of land and transport planning. The keys to success are providing space to cycle and minimising conflict between cyclists and other road users by providing well connected, visible, on-road and off-road cycle lanes.
Many cyclists and would-be cyclists also use public transport. Therefore, cycling links to public transport need to be improved, including safe lock-ups for cycles at train and bus stations and ferry terminals. It also needs to become easier to take cycles on trains and ferries. It will also be important to encourage workplaces to provide cycle parking, lockers and showers. ARTA has developed cycle parking facilities guidelines as part of the Integrated Transport Assessment Guidelines.
ARTA convenes the Auckland Regional Walking and Cycling Group, which developed the Cycling Action Plan (part of the Sustainable Transport Plan). The group includes representatives of local councils, walking and cycling advocacy groups, central government agencies and other organisations with interests in promoting safe cycling and walking. The group also runs an annual Cycle Monitoring Programme to count the number of cyclists on the region's roads.
There is a MAXX Cycling Guide to help new and existing cyclists take to the road safely. ARTA also publishes MAXX Regional Cycling Maps.
Other relevant cycling strategies and documents are:
Getting there – on foot, by cycle is a strategy to advance walking and cycling in New Zealand transport. An implementation plan for this strategy is now in place.
